‘Thank you?’ Lou said, for want of something to say.

‘This is my brother’s house. I’m something of a glorified tenant myself, but my brother’s wife, Lady Mandeville, is happy to have you stay. She was sorry not to have been here to greet you herself. She is a stickler for formality. Now, Louisa, I may call you Louisa, mayn’t I? I find titles so unnecessarily formal.’ Without waiting for Lou to respond, she continued. ‘Tell me something about yourself. We are so remote here that I find myself living vicariously through the experiences of visitors. Elizabeth mentioned that you had suffered a sadness recently. Is it something you wish to talk about? I pride myself on being a good listener.’

She looked at Lou kindly. Waiting. This may be a dream, but it didn’t make the prospect of a revelation any less painful. ‘My mother died,’ she said quietly.

‘Oh, my dear!’ Mrs Hart took hold of Lou’s hands. ‘Oh, I am so sorry. Hang my stupidity! I am a good listener but an equally good contortionist, if I am judged by my ability to put my foot in my mouth.’

‘It’s all right –’

‘No! Don’t make excuses for me. My lack of tact is a fault I am in constant battle with. But I am sorry. I know how devastating the loss of one’s mother is to a daughter.’ She squeezed Lou’s hands. ‘And do you have family at home to help you through this trying time?’

‘I have two brothers.’

‘And your father?’

‘He’s … he’s no longer with us.’

‘Oh my, you poor dear. I don’t doubt that as the only woman, you are left to shoulder the responsibility for the household, as is the lot of every woman.’

Mrs Hart showed such compassion that Lou felt guilty for letting her believe her dad was dead. But this was her dream, and she could live out any truth she wanted.

The door opened, and the maid placed the tray on the table. After thanking then dismissing her, Mrs Hart poured two cups of tea and placed one before Lou.

‘I’m glad that you have found your way to us. It would appear that you are in need of a sojourn from your troubles. Sugar?’

Lou shook her head.

‘You must make the most of my brother’s hospitality. Hill House has a reputation for entertaining, which is indeed well-earned.’ Mrs Hart blew across the top of her tea before taking a sip. ‘And you have fortunately timed your visit to perfection. With the Ball in a few days, there will be so many people to meet and so much to keep you occupied that you will be too busy to dwell for long. And if you prefer the outdoors, I’d be happy to show you some of the winter walks. This was my childhood home, so I know how to enjoy it in all seasons. Do you know how long you intend to stay with us?’